Safety first vital for chainsaw chaps

It's chainsaw Safety Awareness Week, and St John are working with chainsaw-makers Stihl to keep safety "top of mind".

St John clinical director Tony Smith says a major issue in New Zealand is the lack of safety gear worn by the occasional user of chainsaws.

It's important to invest in safety when buying a chainsaw, says Smith, and to also buy chaps, protective glasses and earmuffs.

"We know first hand the outcome of irresponsible chainsaw usage and it's horrible, so it's positive to see companies like Stihl helping to educate Kiwis on correct chainsaw use so that these incidents can be prevented," Smith says.

"It's not just about getting the ambulance to the scene afterwards."

Nine-time Stihl Timbersports Series champion Jason Wynyard, the national ambassador for Chainsaw Safety Awareness Week, says he doesn't understand why donning safety gear isn't a natural step for Kiwi lads.

"I wouldn't dream of using a chainsaw without safety gear, and I'm an expert," he says.

"You wouldn't drive without wearing a seatbelt or go fishing without a lifejacket, so why on earth would you use a chainsaw without safety gear? There's no excuse. "It's simple. Get some chaps to cover your legs, gloves to protect your hands, a helmet, steel-capped boots, and eye and ear protection. That way, if the unexpected does happen, the chances of getting seriously injured are much less."

To support the simple yet essential steps for safe chainsaw operation, Stihl is offering safety packs containing chaps, safety glasses and earmuffs for the special price of $158 (normally $240) during the week, or while stocks last.

A portion of all sales this week will go to St John.

TOP TIPS

ACC suggest four simple guidelines to help you cut down the risk when using a chainsaw.

Use the right safety gear

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  Even for a five minute job, your feet, legs, head, ears, eyes and hands need protection. Safety gear is widely available at power tool suppliers and hardware stores, so make a point of getting what you need.
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  Before starting any task that involves using a chainsaw, you should be wearing:
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  Steel-capped boots - ordinary leather boots offer no protection
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  Chainsaw chaps or trousers
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  Safety helmet
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  At least grade four earmuffs (it only takes a minute for a chainsaw to damage your hearing)
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  Safety glasses or a helmet visor
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  Protective gloves, especially during maintenance

Stop and think

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  Thinking about the task before you attempt it can help reduce injuries. before you start, make sure you have the right equipment and a safe environment to do the JOB.
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  Here are some key things you need to remember:
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  One chainsaw does not fit all jobs - what's good for cutting firewood may not be suitable for cutting smaller pieces of timber.
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  Only use a chainsaw on the ground, and never above shoulder height.
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  Chainsaws are designed to cut wood - never use one to cut other materials.
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  Know your skill level - for example, never try to cut down trees, unless you're a professional.
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  Stay alert - if you're tired, stop and rest.
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  Get to know the manufacturer's safety features

Kickback

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  Kickback happens when the moving chain at the tip of the bar hits an obstruction or a softer piece of material. this causes the chainsaw to whip back at high speed towards you. to reduce kickback:
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  Hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands
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  Always be aware of the location of the tip of the chainsaw - if possible, don't let it touch anything
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  Take care when cutting light material (e.g., twigs) that may catch in the chain
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  Use extreme caution when re-entering a cut
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  Don't over-file the depth gauges
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  Test the chain brake to make sure it works

Sharpen up

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  Good maintenance reduces the risk of injuries. this is because a well maintained chainsaw is easier to use than one that hasn't been kept in good condition. to maintain the chain of your saw properly:
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  Keep the chain sharp, with the correct cutter angles
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  Keep the machine well-oiled and properly tensioned
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  Follow the manufacturer's specifications for correct depth gauge settings